Chapter 344: Before the Sand Settles
In Konohagakure, Land of Fire.
The current Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, frowned as he reviewed the intelligence reports and letters sent by the other Kage.
Standing in front of him were his three longtime comrades: Danzō Shimura, Homura Mitokado, and Koharu Utatane.
"Enough. It’s been several days since we received the intel—you must have already made up your mind, Hiruzen," said Danzō, his face expressionless.
"What choice do we have? We report the situation exactly as it is. Whether they believe it or not is up to them."
The Third Hokage picked up his pipe and took a slow puff.
"You know that’s not what I’m asking."
A ripple of emotion flickered through Danzō’s normally calm eyes. "Those firearms and explosives—they’re valuable. And we need more intelligence on that giant powerhouse."
"Didn’t you already send people to investigate? Why are you asking me?"
The Third Hokage puffed again, glancing sideways at Danzō. He had, in fact, already dispatched three ANBU squads to the Land of Wind.
"What I mean is, we should send envoys to Kumogakure, Iwagakure, and Kirigakure to form a four-nation alliance and apply pressure on the Land of Wind!"